Here’s Everything You Need to Know About Volunteering!
Volunteering is a fantastic way to connect with nature, meet like-minded people, and make a real difference to the health of our rivers and wildlife. At Ribble Rivers Trust, we welcome volunteers of all backgrounds and experience levels to join our hands-on conservation work. To help you get started, we’ve put together this FAQ guide answering some common questions, and it contains everything you need to know about volunteering!
What’s involved in volunteering?
Our volunteer activities vary throughout the year, following a rough seasonal cycle. In winter and early spring, we focus on tree planting, while spring and autumn bring opportunities for litter clean-ups. Summer is dedicated to controlling invasive species, and throughout the year, we tackle other essential tasks such as brash bundling, woodland maintenance, footpath upkeep, survey work, and citizen science projects.
Do you provide all the tools and equipment?
Yes! We supply all the tools and equipment you’ll need. Some volunteers prefer to bring their own gloves, and occasionally, we might suggest bringing a your own tools (like your favourite pair of secateurs), but this is entirely optional and we always have plenty to go around.
What do I need to bring?
As our work is outdoors, dressing appropriately for the weather is essential. That could mean anything from sun cream and a hat to full waterproofs. Sturdy footwear, such as walking boots, trainers, or wellies, is always a must though. To reduce the risk of bites, cuts, and stings, we recommend wearing long sleeves and trousers. Don’t forget to bring a packed lunch and a water bottle, although we usually provide biscuits, tea, and coffee!
Do I need any special skills?
Not at all! You don’t need any experience, as we provide full training. Before each session, we go through a complete tool talk, and our team is always on hand to offer guidance and support.
Is there a minimum time commitment?
No, you can volunteer as often or as little as you like. We keep things simple by sending out a weekly email every Monday with details of upcoming events. If something catches your eye, you can sign up via Ticket Tailor. Once registered, you’ll receive all the information you need, including maps, directions, and contact details. If we ever need to cancel (which is rare), we’ll let you know using the details you’ve provided to Ticket Tailor.
Are children and dogs welcome?
Some of our sites can be challenging to access due to rough terrain, steep hills, or proximity to water, roads, and livestock. Each event listing on Ticket Tailor will contain safety information, so you can decide for yourself- after all, you know your little ones best! If you are bringing an under-18, our insurance will cover them too, but you’ll need to take sole responsibility for them during the session.
If you’d like to bring your dog along, drop us an email at volunteering@ribbletrust.com, and we’ll let you know if the site is suitable.
Do I need a car to volunteer?
Not necessarily, but since some of our work takes place in remote locations, having a car can be helpful. If you don’t drive, you might find a lift through our volunteer WhatsApp group, where our volunteers discuss all sorts of things- including car shares! Please note that we don’t usually reimburse travel expenses.
Are volunteers insured?
Yes, we have specialist insurance that covers all our volunteer activities. Our team also conducts a risk assessment before each event to ensure everything runs smoothly and safely.
Are there toilets or other facilities on-site?
As many of our work sites are in remote areas, facilities aren’t always available. If toilets or other amenities are available, we’ll include this information in the event description.
Ready to get involved?
Now that we’ve hopefuly told you everything you need to know about volunteering, we’d love to have you join us in making a difference to the Ribble catchment! Whether you can spare a few hours or want to get outdoors regularly, every contribution helps. You can sign up to join our mailing list here.
Got more questions? Get in touch at volunteering@ribbletrust.com; we’re always happy to help!
Rivers are at the heart of our local landscapes. Whether you’re casting a line, exploring a riverside trail, or simply basking in the beauty of nature, you can help protect these special places now, and for generations to come.
By becoming a Ribble Rivers Trust supporter for just £3 a month, you’ll be funding real, on-the-ground action.
Ready to make a difference? Learn more here: ribbletrust.org.uk/become-a-supporter
